Thousands of brand-new books landed in Baltimore City school students' hands Tuesday.

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The Maryland State Education Association has helped to put 8,000 new books in the hands of city students in pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade.

A new early reading project launched Tuesday with students at Samuel Coleridge-Taylor Elementary School.

"It's very important to get them in the hands of young children who need them because the earlier they learn how to read, the better chance they have for success later in life," said Betty Weller, MSEA's president.

Students will receive at least two more books to take home this year. National nonprofit First Book is funding the project.

The early literacy program recognizes the service of Clara Floyd, a former leader of the state teachers' union.